LAMC Spring 2008 Instructor: L. Foster
Section #0268 Office
Hrs: MW 12:
MW
Bungalow 3 Email: fosterll@lamc.edu
Math 115: Elementary Algebra
Text: Jerome E. Kaufmann, Elementary Algebra, Eighth
Edition
Other Necessities: Scientific
calculator, graph paper & Common Final Practice Packet.
Distractions: In
order to encourage/promote a positive learning environment: only assistive
electronic
devices are permitted. All others must
be turned off and put away.
Topics:
Ch 1 Concepts of Algebra Ch 5 Exponents
& Polynomials Ch 9 Roots & Radicals
Ch 2 Algebraic Expressions Ch 6 Factoring
& Solving Equations Ch 10 Quadratic Equations
Ch 3 First Degree Equations Ch 7 Algebraic Fractions Ch
11 Functions (2 sections)
Ch 4 Formulas, Problem Solving Ch 8 Graphing
& Linear Systems
Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this course, the student
will be able to:
1) Categorize numbers 12) Solve equations & word problems via
factoring.
2) Manipulate numbers using numerical
operations 13) Manipulate and simplify algebraic fractions.
3) Evaluate arithmetic expressions with
exponents. 14) Solve equations containing algebraic
fractions.
4) Solve first-degree equations and
inequalities. 15) Graph equations in two variables.
5) Solve formulas for a given variable. 16) Determine equations of lines.
6) Recognize and solve proportions problems; 17) Solve systems of equations.
analyze and solve word problems. 18) Determine roots; simplify, & perform operations
7) Simplify,and perform operations on polynomials. on
radicals.
8) Simplify expressions containing negative
exponents. 19) Solve equations containing radicals.
9) Factor polynomials using appropriate
methods 20) Solve quadratic equations using completing
the
10) Apply factoring techniques to solve quadratic . square and the quadratic formula.
equations 21) Define and evaluate relations and functions.
11) Factoring polynomials using a variety of
techniques
Requirements:
Six
Exams 60% Assigned
Homework/Quizzes/Group 10%
Final 30% Math Center Tutoring (at
least 15 hours) 5%
Grades: A 90–100 B 80–89 C 70–79 D 60–69
Exam and Due Dates
(excluding quizzes):
First Exam: February
20 Fourth
Exam: April 9
Second Exam: March 5 Fifth
Exam: April 23
Third Exam: March
19 Sixth
Exam: May 14
Department Common Final Exam at the Bungalows: May 31 @
Please Note: This
is a Saturday !
Students are required to arrive at
picture
I.D., two #2 pencils and a scientific calculator!
Also, backpacks, graphing
calculators, and Cell Phones are not
permitted.
Other
Important Dates for Semester:
Last Date to Drop
w/o W: March
3
Last Date to Drop
with a W: May
5
Final Note: This is a mathematics course!! Every student starts with an “A”! In order to keep that “A” you need to do the
homework, attend class regularly, and take notes carefully. What looks easy on the board may not be so
easy at home (without good notes). Your
questions are not only welcome, they are strongly encouraged. Consider this: whenever you ask a question you do so on behalf of a number of students who also would like to
know the answer! Please take advantage
of the free tutoring and textbook video services provided in the Learning
Assistance Center and Math Center on campus—definitely a privilege! Furthermore, the computer disc included with
your textbook has been extremely helpful with comprehension and grades! Remember that College Policy is that a student
can be dropped after missing three classes BUT it is your responsibility to
drop the course if something unforeseen occurs.
Homework will only be accepted promptly at the first of class. Make-up exams and quizzes will not be given, so make arrangements to
attend regularly now!